Jesse Winker taking next step in rehab in optimistic Mets sign

Mark Vientos is slated to be activated from the injured record Friday, and Jesse Winker shouldn’t be too far behind. 

Winker, who has been out since early Could with a proper indirect pressure, took batting apply earlier than Thursday’s 4-0 win over the Braves.

Carlos Mendoza stated the plan is for Winker to begin a minor-league rehab task, in all probability for Single-A Brooklyn starting Sunday. 

“Good, he appears to be like regular,” Mendoza stated after watching Winker’s BP session. “No hesitation, simply going via his regular routine, and once more, conviction, he’s not favoring something. So speaking to him, he’s on schedule to begin [playing games] on Sunday, almost certainly right here in Brooklyn.” 

Mendoza added that Winker will proceed taking batting apply the subsequent two days earlier than progressing to sport motion. 

The lefty-swinging Winker, who has been restricted to 67 at-bats this season, would give Mendoza another choice at designated hitter or for situational pinch-hitting duties. 

Vientos (hamstring) is predicted to return to the lively roster Friday in Pittsburgh for the primary time since he was injured June 2. 

Left-handed pitcher Sean Manaea was slated to play catch Thursday after he was shut down earlier within the week from his rehab task on account of elbow discomfort that an MRI confirmed to be a free physique within the elbow.

He additionally obtained a cortisone injection Monday. 

“If all the pieces goes nicely, he’s scheduled to throw a bullpen by the weekend, after which, step-by-step, day-by-day, however hopefully he’s making that subsequent rehab begin early subsequent week,” Mendoza stated. 

The 33-year-old Manaea hasn’t pitched but this season after re-signing with the Mets on a three-year deal value $75 million in free company.

He suffered an indirect damage throughout spring coaching and later had a setback with the identical challenge. 

Earlier than this delay, Manaea had made 4 minor-league begins — three for Brooklyn and one for Triple-A Syracuse —, giving up eight earned runs in 12 mixed innings. 

First baseman Pete Alonso, shortstop Francisco Lindor and outfielder Juan Soto have been named as finalists at their positions within the voting for the NL starters for the All-Star Recreation.

Part 2 of the voting begins at midday Monday.